KUALA LUMPUR: With her experience in the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry previously, Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun is familiar with its workings. And, one of the first things she vows to get cracking on is social issues.

The newly sworn-in senator, who will assume office as deputy minister today, said among the most pressing was to help alleviate poverty through targeted programmes for the hardcore poor and single parents.

“I am well acquainted with the issues faced by the ministry.

“I would like to help resolve them through the implementation of several measures,” she told reporters after taking her oath of loyalty before Dewan Negara president Tan Sri Abu Zahar Ujang in Parliament yesterday.

She also pledged to do her best in assisting the minister, Datuk Rohani Abdul Karim, and deputy Datuk Azizah Mohd Dun.

Chew, 50, was parliamentary secretary for the ministry between 2004 and 2008. She continued serving as its deputy minister between April 2009 and April 2010 following her first appointment as senator.

Chew, also an MCA vice-president, said she took note of Abu Zahar’s advice that it was crucial for senators to ensure the continued peace and stability of the country’s multi-racial society.

“In this regard, we should not politicise issues which can sow discord among the races,” she added.